/ əˈledʒ; NAmE / verb
[ often passive ] ( formal ) to state sth as a fact but without giving proof :
[ v ( that )]
The prosecution alleges (that) she was driving carelessly.
[ vn that ]
It is alleged that he mistreated the prisoners.
[ vn to inf ]
He is alleged to have mistreated the prisoners.
HELP NOTE : This pattern is only used in the passive.
[ vn ]
This procedure should be followed in cases where dishonesty has been alleged.
[also v speech ]
► al·leged adjective [ only before noun ] ( formal ):
the alleged attacker / victim / killer (= that sb says is one)
the alleged attack / offence / incident (= that sb says has happened)
► al·leged·ly / əˈledʒɪdli; NAmE / adverb :
crimes allegedly committed during the war
••
WORD ORIGIN
Middle English (in the sense declare on oath ): from Old French esligier , based on Latin lis , lit- lawsuit; confused in sense with Latin allegare allege.